Wireless Access Point vs. Wireless Router

Ok, I have an existing wired network that is based around a DSL modem in the basement, with two desktop PC's near the modem, and two lines running to two bedrooms on the main floor.

I have a new notebook with wireless connectivity on the way to replace my ol' Compaq Presario 730. I want to add wireless access to the network, but I want to maximize signal strength and range by locating the wireless access on the main floor instead of the basement. So, I won't be replacing my ethernet router in the basement with a wi-fi one, but I want to know if it's absolutely necessary to go with a WAP instead of another wireless router?

A D-Link DWL-G700AP would cost me a little more than $80 once shipping and taxes are applied, whereas a sexy-looking Linksys WRT54GC would cost $50 plus taxes, driving to Future Shop and a stamp for the rebate. The price jump up to a WAP just makes me wonder, 'cause as a student, that is good beer money I would be using up!

 

If you look, you can find an access point for roughly the same price as you would buy the router. I bought an access point with an integrated switch (not router) for the price you'd normally buy a wireless router. That exact same D-Link model you mentioned now goes for $47 at NewEgg after rebate and shipping.

Now, to answer your question, you can still get a wireless router, and just use it as an access point / switch (disabling its routing functions). In fact, it may be better, because if in the future you find out that you want to use it as a router, you will be able to do so.

 

Yes, i agree of what Dr. said. Its always juat better to have the router ready then just not having it at all and one day needing it. So my vote is to get the router.

Nick

 

In my case it's funny. I needed an access point, and more wired ports, but didn't want to replace my main router. So I got the Edimax EW-7207APg AP/switch.

Now, it is exactly the same thing as the Edimax BR-6114Wg wireless router (same CPU, same physical/electrical characteristics). Only the firmware determines the functionality (and I know that some peeps successfully converted one to the other via firmware flash). So should I want the routing functions, I can just get the router's firmware.

 

well, I'm in Canada, so figuring in the lack of rebate at ncix.com, and the dollar conversion, the prices are probably pretty close.

how would I go about disabling the routing functions of the router? I have a Linksys BEF-whatever ethernet router and I've never seen a page in the config that says "turn me into a switch"

 

First, disable DHCP by the router. That can be done on any model, I think. Then, some models allow you to disable the NAT function. Then it becomes a switch.

But I'm thinking, that even if you don't disable NAT, and just don't plug anything into the router's WAN port, it will be the same.